Shantanu Deshpande resigns from LinkedIn with an apology and defense for those who accused him of being a slave owner

Shantanu Deshpande, the CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, has found himself in the midst of controversy after advising youngsters to work 18 hours a day in the early years of their career. His comments sparked a heated debate, with many criticizing his stance on work-life balance.

In a recent interview shared on LinkedIn, Deshpande expressed regret for his previous remarks, stating, “I did not mean to suggest working 18 hours every day. My intention was to emphasize giving your best effort.” He also addressed the hate messages he received, condemning the personal attacks on his family.

Despite the backlash, Deshpande stood by his belief in the importance of hard work, stating, “The only variable you can control is your hard work.” He emphasized the window of opportunity between the ages of 22 and 27, urging young individuals to maximize their potential during this time.

On the topic of toxic work culture, Deshpande advised employees to seek out new opportunities if they are not learning or feeling inspired in their current role. He encouraged a proactive approach to career development, urging individuals to change their work environment if necessary.

While Deshpande’s comments have stirred up controversy, they have also sparked a conversation about work ethic and career growth. As the CEO continues to navigate the fallout from his remarks, the debate over work-life balance and professional development rages on.